USDOT awards $7.9 million for station upgrades in Washington state

U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood awarded $7.9 million for the Washington Department of Transportation to construct a new station in Tukwila, Wash., replacing the current, temporary wooden structure and creating enhanced intermodal and parking facilities.

Secretary LaHood has encouraged Congress to pass the transportation piece of the American Jobs Act, which would fund badly-needed projects in Washington State and around the country and put thousands of Americans back to work.

"Station improvements like these will help to strengthen the rail system and economy in the Northwest," said Secretary LaHood. "These projects will create good jobs and continue to support the growth of passenger rail in the region."

The improvements will provide enhanced access to the Amtrak Cascades and ST Sounder services, with dedicated long term parking, improved pedestrian and bus connections and passenger amenities including platforms and shelters.

Amtrak's Cascades Service, which operates between Eugene, Ore. to Vancouver, BC, Canada, is one of the railroad's fastest growing routes.